James Tilghman, AIA

James W. Tilghman, AIA is a seasoned architect and design educator with over 30 years of experience, leading design projects for clients in the US and internationally. As a GSA Design Excellence Lead Designer, he has spearheaded design and visioning for key national agencies and institutions, alongside a vast private sector portfolio. Based in Washington DC, his work explores civic meaning, context, identity, and technology.

In 2012, Tilghman founded M12 Design, offering design leadership across diverse architectural practices. He collaborates with U+ Design Partners, an international network with offices in Washington DC, Chicago, and Nanjing. His work is frequently recognized for excellence by the American Institute of Architects.

At the University of Maryland, Tilghman teaches both undergraduate and graduate architecture programs. Since 2013, he has instructed ARCH 403, focusing on a holistic design approach that develops intuitive and analytical skills. In 2016, he introduced the ARCH 403 Super Jury, a blind competition judged by external experts. He also taught ARCH 408, exploring future transportation and VR technologies.

At the graduate level, Tilghman instructs ARCH 406, ARCH 600, and primarily ARCH 797: Thesis Proseminar. As a Thesis Chair, he has guided 12 Master's recipients and over 65 Pro-Thesis candidates to successful thesis completion.

Professionally, Tilghman serves on the AIA DC Design Excellence Committee and has been a guest juror at various institutions, including Catholic University and Columbia University. He was on the Professional Advisory Board at MAPP from 2009-2011.

Education:

• Master of Architecture, Harvard Graduate School of Design
• Bachelor of Arts, University Of Pennsylvania